Preaching on Spiritual Conflict: What to do?
A reality faced by every believer: spiritual conflict. We are not merely fighting against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of darkness. Yet, we are not left defenseless. The Word of God equips us for this battle, providing us with the strength and the strategy to overcome.
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1. Be a man: courage for spiritual combat (1 Kings 2:2)
"…be strong, therefore, and be a man." This is a call to courage, a call to stand firm in the face of adversity. Spiritual conflict requires a steadfast character, a resolve shaped by God's truth. We are not to cower in fear, but to stand as warriors, clothed in the strength of the Lord.
2. Your work will be rewarded (2 Chronicles 15:7)
"But be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work will be rewarded." Faithfulness in spiritual combat is never in vain. God sees our struggles, our perseverance, and our unwavering devotion. He promises a reward for those who remain steadfast in the fight.
3. God comes with salvation: do not fear (Isaiah 35:4)
"Say to those who are of a fearful heart, ‘Be strong, do not be afraid...’” Even in the midst of fear, God's voice rings out with encouragement. He brings salvation to His people, assuring us that we are not alone in the battle. Fear is a weapon of the enemy, but God's presence is our shield.
4. Be strong, for I am with you, says the Lord (Haggai 2:4)
"…Be strong... for I am with you, says the Lord of hosts." This is the ultimate assurance. God Himself promises His presence in the midst of conflict. He fights alongside us, empowering us with His might. With God on our side, who can stand against us?
5. Let's get to work! Confidence in the time of action (Zechariah 8:9)
"…let your hands be strong, you who hear these words in these days…” Spiritual warfare demands action, not passivity. We are called to engage, to fight for truth and righteousness. The Word of God fuels our confidence, guiding our steps and empowering our actions.
6. Stand firm in the faith (1 Corinthians 16:13)
"Watch therefore, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." The soldier of Christ is vigilant, alert to the enemy's tactics. We must stand firm in our faith, rooted in the Word, unyielding in our devotion. Courage and strength are essential qualities in this battle.
7. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might (Ephesians 6:10)
"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord..." Victory in spiritual warfare does not come from our own strength, but from the power of God. We must rely on His might, surrendering our weaknesses to His omnipotence.
8. Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 2:1)
"You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." Our spiritual strength is found in the grace of Christ, the undeserved favor that sustains us. It is through His grace that we are empowered to overcome temptation and withstand the enemy’s attacks.
9. The Lord will fight for you (Exodus 14:14)
"The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace." In the midst of conflict, we must trust God more than our own strategies. Surrender to His will, and He will fight on our behalf. He is our defender, our deliverer.
10. The armor of God is essential to winning (Ephesians 6:11)
"Put on the complete armor of God, that you may be able to stand..." No soldier can win without proper equipment. The armor of God, including the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, 1 is essential for victory. We must clothe ourselves with these spiritual weapons, preparing ourselves for the battle.
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Let us stand strong in the Lord, clothed in His armor, empowered by His grace. Let us engage in spiritual combat with courage and faith, knowing that God is with us, and that victory is assured. Amen.
